How does a capacitive sensor work?

The working principle of capacitive sensors is based on the electric field formed between the object and the sensor. When an object approaches the sensor, the object changes the sensor's electric field distribution. This change causes a change in the capacitance on the sensor. By measuring changes in capacitance, the distance between the object and the sensor or other related physical quantities can be determined. Capacitive sensors offer high accuracy, fast response and wide applicability.

The operating environment of this tutorial: Windows 10 system, Dell G3 computer.

Capacitive sensor is a common sensor type that senses and measures the properties and status of an object by measuring the change in capacitance between the object and the sensor. It detects changes in the electric field of an object based on changes in capacitance, and then converts it into a usable electrical signal.

The working principle of capacitive sensors is based on the electric field formed between the object and the sensor. When an object approaches the sensor, the object changes the sensor's electric field distribution. This change causes a change in the capacitance on the sensor. By measuring changes in capacitance, the distance between the object and the sensor or other related physical quantities can be determined.

Specifically, capacitive sensors usually consist of two electrodes that form a capacitance between them. One of the electrodes is a fixed electrode of the sensor, and the other electrode is a moving electrode that can be in contact with or close to the object. When an object approaches the sensor, it changes the electric field distribution between the sensor electrodes.

In a sensor, by applying a voltage or charge to a capacitor. This electric field is affected by the space and medium between the sensor and the object. When an object approaches, the distribution of the electric field changes due to the presence of the object. This will cause the value of the capacitor to change, since the distribution of the electric field is an important factor in the value of the capacitor. Measuring changes in capacitance, the sensor can determine the distance between an object and the sensor or other related physical quantities.

Capacitive sensors have many advantages. First, they are effective on both non-metallic and conductive objects, increasing their suitability for different applications. Secondly, capacitive sensors respond quickly and can sense changes in objects in real time. In addition, capacitive sensors also have the advantages of high accuracy and long life.

Based on the working principle of capacitive sensors, it is widely used in many applications. For example, it can be used to measure and control liquid level, distance, humidity, pressure and weight, etc. In automation and industry, capacitive sensors are commonly used for object detection, position control, and robot navigation.

In summary, capacitive sensors sense and measure the properties and status of objects by monitoring changes in capacitance between the object and the sensor. It measures changes in capacitance and converts them into electrical signals based on the impact of objects on electric field distribution. Capacitive sensors offer high accuracy, fast response and wide applicability. In many fields, capacitive sensors play an important role and provide important technical support for the realization of automation and intelligence.

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